Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the perfect dinner for busy nights when you want a hearty, comforting meal that’s simple to make. Featuring tender chicken tenders, rich tomato sauce, gooey melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese, and a crispy garlic crouton topping, this baked casserole combines all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan in one easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re craving chicken casserole, baked chicken recipes, or comfort food casseroles, this recipe delivers it all. Great for family dinners, meal prep, or a delicious weeknight meal. Plus, it’s customizable with variations and substitutions for dietary preferences. Enjoy this cheesy, savory, and satisfying Chicken Parmesan casserole tonight!

This easy-to-make Chicken Parmesan Casserole combines juicy chicken tenders, a rich tomato sauce, and two types of cheese, all topped with a crispy garlic crouton crust. It’s a family-friendly meal that delivers delicious comfort food with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 2 lb chicken tenders
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 6 fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
• 5-oz package garlic croutons, crushed
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Place the chicken tenders in a 9×13-inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
2. Season the chicken: Sprinkle the chicken with minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add tomato sauce: Pour the tomato sauce over the chicken and spread it evenly.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes at 350ºF.
5. Add cheese: After baking, remove from the oven and sprinkle half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top of the chicken.
6. Add croutons: Top the cheese with the crushed garlic croutons, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
7. Bake again: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
8. Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

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Tips

• Chicken Tenders: If you don’t have chicken tenders, you can use chicken breasts or thighs. Just slice them into thinner pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Make it Spicy: For a kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
• Crispier Topping: For a crunchier topping, bake the casserole for an additional 5-10 minutes at the end. You can also broil it for a couple of minutes to get a golden, crispy crust.

Variations and Substitutions

• Crouton Alternatives: If you don’t have garlic croutons, use regular croutons or even breadcrumbs for a different texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free mozzarella and parmesan cheeses to make this casserole suitable for dairy-free diets.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with thin slices of eggplant for a vegetarian take on this dish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders? Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but make sure to increase the baking time to ensure they are cooked through.

Can I prepare this in advance? Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.

What can I serve with this casserole? This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this Chicken Parmesan Casserole with a side of pasta or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• For a lighter option, pair it with a simple green salad tossed with balsamic vinaigrette.
• You can also serve it with sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli for a healthy vegetable side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole combines all the flavors of traditional chicken parmesan but with the convenience of a one-dish bake. The juicy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey cheese make it a comforting and satisfying meal. Plus, the garlic croutons add a crispy, flavorful touch that elevates the entire dish. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy!